Rhododendron x hybrida 'Encore Autumn Sundance'

Garden hybrid

This is a garden hybrid, bred from more than one wild species, so it has no single species page of its own.

95 other cultivars

shrub

Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea

Rhododendron x hybrida 'Encore Autumn Sundance'

The Story

Plant Bio

Encore Azaleas are a revolutionary group of hybrid rhododendrons bred for their ability to bloom not only in the spring but also again in the summer and fall.

'Encore Autumn Sundance', sold as Encore Autumn Sundance, is an evergreen azalea with single pink flowers and green, non-variegated foliage. It blooms in spring and repeats in summer and fall, reaching about 42 inches tall and 48 inches wide. Foliage takes on reddish tones in winter.

Uses & Benefits:

Its manageable size and dense growth habit make it perfect for foundation plantings, massing on slopes, or creating a low, informal flowering hedge. It also performs well in large containers.

The multi-season blooms provide a continuous nectar source for pollinators like bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds throughout the growing season, supporting a healthy garden ecosystem.

Garden hybrid

Bred from more than one wild species, so it has no species page of its own.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

42"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9, 10

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived shrub

Native To

Garden origin

Toxicity

All parts are toxic if ingested.

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with acidic, well-drained soil and good morning sun.
Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
Amend the soil with organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill the hole and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture and cool the roots.

Pro Tip

For best reblooming, provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sun per day; too much shade will reduce flowering.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly, especially during the first year and in dry periods.
Maintain a consistent layer of acidic mulch.
Fertilize after the spring bloom cycle to encourage new growth and future flowers.
Ensure the soil is well-drained.

Don't

Do not plant too deep; azaleas are shallow-rooted.
Avoid pruning late in the season, as this can remove fall flower buds.
Don't let the soil dry out completely.
Avoid using heavy, alkaline soils.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Continuous color in foundation plantingsVibrant mass planting for seasonal impactColorful accent in mixed perennial borders

Companion Plants

Hydrangea Hosta Heuchera Pieris japonica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea questions

What zones can Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea grow in?

Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea is hardy in USDA Zones 6–10. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea bloom?

Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea need full sun?

Encore Autumn Sundance Azalea does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.